what is merits and demrites of opinion poll
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Answer:
Advantages of Opinion Polls
1. A majority opinion can be determined without an election.
Opinion polls are an easy way to see how the general public is thinking or feeling about any given subject. Instead of the costs of a referendum or an election on the issue, opinion polls can help those in leadership to determine ewhat the best response should be from the governing body. This applies in the business world just as it does the political world.
2. Randomness helps to create more potential accuracy.
Because opinion polls are usually random interviews of average people within a core demographic, the information is generally accurate when it goes outward to the feelings of the entire demographic. Although small population samples hinder this process [100 people out of 100 million is hardly reflective], large population samples can create some solid information.
Disadvantages of Opinion Polls
1. The results can influence others in a negative way.
Opinion polls that are released in real-time can have a detrimental effect on certain population groups. A classic example of this is during the US Presidential election every 4 years. Because there is a 3 hour time difference from the East Coast and West Coast of the US, opinion polls that dictate a projected winner when some states are still voting can influence the actions of others.
2. The results are not always accurate.
The answers given in an opinion poll are not always a true reflection of what a person’s opinion happens to be. Opinions are nuanced and subtle, based on individual experiences and thoughts. A simple “yes” or “no” doesn’t reflect those nuances at all. Someone might say “yes” to being pro-choice, yet their opinion regarding the subject has varying degrees of nuance that might make it seem like they could say “yes” to being pro-life as well.